Name a Sixareen
The Shetland Museum and Archives is offering a unique opportunity to name the sixareen currently being built in the boatsheds at Hay’s Dock. As well as naming the boat, the lucky winner will be asked to launch, and be one of the first to row, her at a special event on 21st June, the first Saturday of the Johnsmas Foy.
This is the first sixareen to have been built in Lerwick for over 100 years and is based on the INDUSTRY LK 718 which was originally built in 1891 and is now located in the Museum and Archives Boat Hall. Historically, the sixareen was an important part of the haaf (deep sea) fishery, where crews fished for cod and ling up to 40 miles from land, on trips lasting up to 3 days.
To provide inspiration for the competition, see pictures of the sixareen being built here, or visit the Museum and Archives to learn more about the history of the sixareen and view the ongoing boatbuilding.
We have also provided a select list of previous sixareen names here.
While there is no specific naming method for Shetland boats, it is clear from the list that a large majority were named after women, often the names of skippers or owners wives or daughters. Other boats were named after previous whaling or naval ships men may have served on or the places they visited. All suggestions are welcome, whether inspired by previous names or something entirely new, just remember to add your reason for choosing the name.
For your chance to win this fabulous competition, download an entry form here.
